Zoning board action on gun range disturbing

I am writing as a concerned citizen of Winchester, regarding the Ridgeline shooting range. The Winchester zoning board’s decision last week was to table the issue indefinitely. This was done after a nonpublic meeting. The townspeople present were not allowed to hear how the board came up with this decision. A board member was recorded as meeting with a Ridgeline lawyer after the meeting, which brings in concern for unfair influence of the board members.

This facility would negatively impact Pisgah Park, the surrounding safety of this small community, and the property value of surrounding properties.

The most important factor that affects my opinion as a medical professional is the safety factor. This is far too close to homes and traffic, and no amount of placation from the Ridgeline lawyers changes the fact that they cannot guarantee the safety concerns raised.

There is precedent for our concerns given the recent events with a Keene shooting range. The village of Ashuelot and town of Winchester do not have the capabilities of dealing with even one serious unintentional injury.

I implore you to continue publishing articles on this issue so that the greater community is aware of this local threat.

Sincerely,

LISA A. PATTERSON

Winchester